But the minute I started pulling the pieces together to place on the patio-

it came back over.

That patina that it has from being painted and then stripped and weathered a bit- with those detailed carvings and scalloped apron- all together they add a huge amount

of French cottage charm to this space.

And the soft light color was absolutely perfect for pairing with those chairs and the rock fireplace.

#3. A pop

A pop of classic black pairs with blush to perfection.

Plus it keeps the patio from feeling too 'white' by adding that contrast.

#4. The rug

There is a story behind that rug.

You see, I ordered in online and asked my husband stop to pick it up at our local store

while I was out of town.

When it arrived, to be honest, I wasn't sure it would work.

It wasn't the color I was thinking-or the pattern really
and initially, I left it off the patio and started

to take some test photographs.

But it was pretty clear-something was missing.

So, I brought the rug out and set everything up again-

and it was perfect.

#5 Steer clear from rooms ready to go
Something I learned a long time ago was to avoid buying 'rooms' in sets.
Think 'collected' rather than ' I walked into the store and brought home a living room '
Mix and match the styles and era of the pieces.
Sure it is easier to buy an outdoor seating group with a sofa and 2 chairs
and coffee table and put it on the patio and call it good. B
ut for that cottage charm- you want to bring elements and pieces together
that didn't naturally start that way.
That thrift store find with the new chairs and pillows
with your grandmothers favorite pitcher to hold the flowers.
Those pieces mixing and mingling tell a story that is charming and interesting.

And finally

#6. Just go with what you love.

Your patio is part of your home-
so decorate it the way you would decorate your indoor spaces
and decorate it the way that makes you happy.

10 comments

I am just in love with your new patio. I love everything about it. And, I love that the rug is not matchy, matchy, but actually pulls out the color in the wicker and the coffee table. Love the blush! Love the bit of black! I love a bit of black in every room! It's all amazing! Soft and beautiful! Be still my heart! <3

Simply gorgeous! I adore the wicker chairs in the chalky white shades. The rug really pulled it together. That is the sort of decision I have the hardest time with by assuming I need to "play it safe" with colors. When I let my mind be open and giving it a try I end up wondering why I hesitated. I went to your link of where the items were available and that was quite handy. Thank you! Your blog site is wonderful and a feast for the eyes.....

now I like your fireplace it looks awesome, the carpet and coffee table pulled it together, but i am having a problem with the mirror, I'm sure it looks great at night reflecting the lights.Wish I had a covered patio. Love your posts!

I am going to go back and look at the patio reveal post too. This is gorgeous! I want to see how you did the curtains. LOVE the hydrangeas blooming in the square planters! How I would LOVE a fireplace on our patio!!!! It is on my wish list but.....